Father’s Day has deep roots. The idea of spotlighting dads began in the early 20th century, thanks to Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington. Inspired by Mother’s Day and raised by William Jackson Smart, a single father who was a Civil War veteran, Dodd wanted to honor her dad’s sacrifices and love. In 1910, she helped organize the first Father’s Day.
Despite Dodd’s intentions, Father’s Day took a while to catch on. It wasn’t until 1972 that President Richard Nixon declared it an official national holiday. Dodd, who died at age 96 in 1978, lived long enough to see the holiday spread across the country.
This Father’s Day, we asked some special DCG dads to share a memory or some words about being a father:
Robert McCain, dad to Masen, 14
This was Masen’s first moment catching a catfish and holding it that day! He in total caught three, and he met his first in-person NFL Draft pick player, Carson Vinson.
Adam Cyr, dad to Charlie, 4 months
Parenting while working full-time takes teamwork — stay connected with your partner and share the load. Dads, don’t forget to lean into the fun; kids are a joy, not just a job. And when stress hits, remember: Nothing resets your day like your child’s smile when they see you.
Alex Keckeisen, dad to Phoebe, 2½
I have a local bike group I ride with on a weekly basis, and Phoebe always asks if she can come, too. Well, last week I put the Kids Ride Shotgun seat (a baby shower gift from DCG) on my bike, and she joined me on that ride, and we had the best time. We love getting out riding bikes, hiking, and spending time outdoors together. It’s something I hope we’ll always be able to do to bond and spend time together.
Today, Americans celebrate Father’s Day with everything from picnics and golf outings to homemade cards, quirky socks, and questionable ties. Whatever your plans — whether you’re paying tribute to your dad or a father figure, remembering someone who’s no longer here, or getting showered with affection by your kids, fur babies, or chosen family — happy Father’s Day!
